California, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Bed Bath & Beyond, under the leadership of Marcus Lemonis, has decided against opening new stores in California due to the high costs and regulatory issues in the state. This decision follows recent efforts to revive the brand, including the opening of a new store in Nashville, TN. The company will focus on e-commerce solutions for California consumers, with plans for expansion across other states in the next two years. The announcement reflects a growing trend of businesses reevaluating their presence in California’s challenging economic environment.
California – Bed Bath & Beyond will not open any new retail stores in California, marking a significant decision from the company’s executive chairman, Marcus Lemonis. On August 20, 2025, Lemonis announced that the high costs of doing business in the state, including charges related to regulations, taxes, and wages, influenced this decision. Lemonis emphasized that this choice stems from practical business challenges rather than political motivations.
Bed Bath & Beyond recently opened its first Bed Bath & Beyond Home store in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 8, 2025, as part of Lemonis’s efforts to rejuvenate the brand following its bankruptcy filing in 2023. Although there are plans to open approximately 300 smaller store locations across the United States in the next two years, California is not included in this expansion.
Lemonis, who boasts 1.3 million followers on social media, previously solicited suggestions for store locations, keen to engage with customers on potential future openings. However, in reflecting on the business climate, he described California as “overregulated, expensive, and risky.” He elaborated that the state’s complex regulations and high costs could present insurmountable barriers for businesses aiming to grow. California’s minimum wage currently stands at $16.50 per hour, contributing to the classification of the state as the most expensive in which to start a business in the nation.
For Californians, there remains the option to purchase Bed Bath & Beyond products online. Delivery services will be maintained, ensuring products reach consumers within 24 to 48 hours despite the lack of physical stores. This approach marks a shift to an e-commerce-focused strategy while managing cost challenges associated with brick-and-mortar operations.
The decision to forgo new stores in California mirrors a broader trend, with many businesses choosing to relocate their operations to more accommodating business climates. Recently, Brightpoint Ventures also announced its move from California to Florida, stating similar frustrations over the state’s regulatory environment.
The California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office expressed surprise at Lemonis’ comments, particularly given Bed Bath & Beyond’s aim to reestablish its market presence following its bankruptcy. Before this downturn, the company had over 300 locations across the country.
Bed Bath & Beyond now falls under the ownership of Beyond Inc., a parent company that also includes buybuy BABY and Overstock.com. With Lemonis at the helm, known for his transformative business strategies showcased on the television program “The Profit,” the company endeavors to redefine its model and regain customer trust.
As Bed Bath & Beyond embarks on this new phase, the decision not to expand into California reveals ongoing concerns regarding the economic viability of enhancing operations in the state. As businesses navigate these challenging waters, it remains to be seen how this landscape will evolve in the coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t Bed Bath & Beyond open stores in California?
Marcus Lemonis cited California’s high costs, regulatory challenges, and business environment as reasons for not opening new stores in the state.
What are the plans for Bed Bath & Beyond now?
The company plans to open around 300 smaller store locations across other parts of the U.S. over the next two years, while continuing to serve customers online.
What options do California customers have for purchasing products?
California customers can still purchase Bed Bath & Beyond products online, with delivery available within 24 to 48 hours.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Executive Chairman | Marcus Lemonis |
| New Store Openings | First Bed Bath & Beyond Home store opened in Nashville, TN. |
| California Expansion | No new stores in California due to regulatory challenges. |
| Online Purchasing | Products available online with fast delivery options. |
| Future Plans | Approximately 300 smaller stores planned across the U.S. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- USA Today
- San Francisco Chronicle
- Forbes
- Wikipedia: Bed Bath & Beyond
- Google Search: Bed Bath & Beyond California
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
